Yang Hansen, a new addition to the Portland Trail Blazers, recently shared insights into his early perceptions of top-tier basketball, particularly the decisive Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals. His candid reflection reveals an unexpected start to his now-burgeoning career, highlighting a journey from youthful indifference to professional aspiration. This transformation underscores a powerful narrative of evolving passion and relentless dedication, culminating in his significant entry into the NBA.
Hansen's path to professional basketball is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. His initial lack of engagement with the sport's pinnacle moments as a child contrasts sharply with his current status as a highly-touted NBA draftee. This unique trajectory illustrates how early experiences, even those marked by disinterest, can unexpectedly lay the groundwork for future success and a deep-seated commitment to one's craft.
A Surprising Start: Childhood Disinterest in Elite Basketball
In a recent article for The Player's Tribune, Yang Hansen, the newest guard for the Portland Trail Blazers, shared a surprising recollection from his past. As a 10-year-old, he watched Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors, an event many consider a classic. However, Hansen admitted that the highly anticipated game felt rather unexciting to him at the time. Surrounded by enthusiastic teammates, he found himself detached from the fervent reactions to each major play, indicating a notable lack of engagement with the spectacle of elite basketball during his formative years.
This early indifference to a significant NBA event offers a unique perspective on Hansen's journey. Despite his initial lack of excitement, he acknowledges that observing top-level basketball, even from a detached standpoint, subtly influenced his understanding of the game. He felt physically outmatched and less skilled compared to his peers, which contributed to a sense of not quite belonging. This unusual beginning to his connection with the sport highlights how even seemingly uninspiring moments can contribute to a player's long-term development, fostering a deeper appreciation and drive for improvement.
From Qingdao to Portland: Hansen's Remarkable Ascent in Professional Basketball
Yang Hansen's career has seen a dramatic shift from his early days of casual observation to becoming a professional basketball player. After being drafted 16th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2025 NBA Draft, his rights were subsequently traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. This trade, involving future draft considerations for Cedric Coward, marked a significant milestone, making Hansen the ninth Chinese player to be drafted into the NBA and the highest pick from China since Yi Jianlian in 2007.
His impressive progression was evident during his tenure in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) with Qingdao, where he consistently demonstrated growth. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged 16.6 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists. His playoff performances further solidified his potential, with averages of 13.4 points and 7.3 rebounds over eight games. Hansen's Summer League debut with Portland also showcased his readiness for the next level, as he averaged 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists across four games, playing an average of 24.5 minutes. Reflecting on his past, Hansen now understands that his early experiences, including his initial disinterest in the 2016 Finals, instilled in him the vital lesson of persistence, transforming him from a hesitant observer into a driven NBA talent.
